Whilst you might expect most people to take a break for Christmas, burglars don’t. The festive season presents tempting opportunities: darker evenings, freshly unboxed gifts, and houses left unattended for short trips all combine to elevate risk. In this post, we share practical security and insurance strategies to help you protect your home over the holidays.
Why Christmas Attracts Burglaries
- High-value visible goods — Christmas trees by windows, packages left on doorsteps and discarded boxes for expensive items in your recycling bins, make homes an open target.
- Unattended properties — Travel, extended family visits, or holiday vacations can mean periods when homes are lightly monitored or empty.
- Complacency — Many assume they are safe over the holidays. But burglaries tend to spike in December and January.
- Distracting homeowners — Festivities distract people from regular security practices (locking windows, verifying doors).
- Here are some smart security steps you can take, both physically and digitally to deter burglars:Use motion-activated external lighting and timers so house activity looks “normal” even when you’re away.
- Install visible security cameras and smart doorbell systems. These act as deterrents and provide video feed if a claim arises.
- Ensure your alarm system is fully operational, monitored, and set whenever you’re not home.
- After opening gifts, remove or conceal packaging, especially branded boxes for high-end electronics or luxury goods.
Document Before Disaster
- Photograph valuables (new or old) and maintain a digital inventory.
- Store receipts, certificates, serial numbers, and provenance details securely (offline & online).
- Update these records mid-season if you receive or buy new items.
Don’t let burglars spoil your festive season. Get in touch with our dedicated Private Client team and let us help you strengthen your cover and safeguard your home. (contact details)
